Check out the Bay Trail Bikeway for gorgeous waterfront ride

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Waterfront ride: With thousands of spectators expected at the 34 races of the upcoming America’s Cup , bicycle transportation will be key, and the Bay Trail Bikeway will be the backbone of bicycle access for all.

FRIDAY

Shake it up: The California Academy of Sciences hosts a 1906-styled premiere bash for its “Earthquake” exhibit. The night includes a quake simulator. [7 p.m. to midnight, 50 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park, S.F.]

SATURDAY

A great bike ride

Waterfront ride: With thousands of spectators expected at the 34 races of the upcoming America’s Cup , bicycle transportation will be key, and the Bay Trail Bikeway will be the backbone of bicycle access for all.

On this San Francisco Bicycle Coalition-sponsored Bay Trail ride, learn about plans to improve this important Connecting the City route and enjoy the gorgeous waterfront, too. [10 a.m. to noon, meet at Pier 14, The Embarcadero at Mission Street, S.F., www.sfbike.org]

Celebrations

Carnaval time: Carnaval San Francisco is happening in the Mission district. The multicultural event features music, salsa dancing, food and on Sunday, a parade. [10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Harrison Street between 16th and 23rd streets, S.F.; www.sfcarnaval.org]

Birds and flowers: Every spring, egrets and irises return to Audubon Canyon Ranch’s Martin Griffin Preserve. Hike a 3½-mile loop into the less-traveled back of the park via the Zumie and Griffin loop trails. Stop at the newly constructed Henderson Overlook, an ideal vantage point for spotting the great egrets. [Visit WeekendSherpa.com to sign up for email about getting outdoors in Northern California]